How Does a Chiropractor Diagnose Degenerative Disc Disease?
During your initial evaluation, your chiropractor reviews your past and present medical history, which includes a discussion about your current symptoms and the potential cause. A physical and neurological exam helps pinpoint potential problem areas, such as where joint motion is restricted (eg, range of motion),abnormal spinal curvature, muscle spasms and/or trigger points, or evidence of injury (eg, sprain, strain). Of course, there are many different reasons why your neck or back may hurt, and your chiropractic assessment may include a few simple tests.
Your chiropractor will also observe how you walk, as well as your overall posture. Those details will help him or her understand your body mechanics and how your spine moves.You may also need an imaging test, such as an x-ray or MRI.After your examination, the chiropractor will diagnose your condition and develop a treatment plan to reduce back pain and other symptoms of DDD
The goal of chiropractic care for DDD is to improve joint mechanics by improving spinal motion and reducing inflammation. The chiropractor may also work on improving the function of the intervertebral disc. To boost up the recovery process your chiropractor may use spinal manipulation (also called spinal adjustment). There are multiple types of spinal manipulation, including: Specific spinal manipulation as well as diversified method. Your chiropractor will identify the joints that are restricted or those that show abnormal motion. He will work to restore movement to the joints using a gentle thrusting technique. Flexion-distraction technique: This type of spinal manipulation uses a gentle, non-thrusting technique which is very safe it’s typically used to treat herniated discs and spinal stenosis. The chiropractor applies gentle force without thrusting directly into the spine. Manual therapies may also be used to help treat DDD symptom The chiropractor identifies tight painful points on a muscle and puts direct pressure on these points to relieve tension.